Much like Demopolis Mayor Cecil Williamson did, District 24 Senate Candidate Rev. James E. Carter is hitting the streets – and phones – to try and win the Jan. 25 election that will send someone to the Alabama State Senate.

“My campaign is mostly word of mouth,” Carter said. “Telling family and friends and getting them to tell their family and friends.”

Carter, a Republican, will face Democrat Bobby Singleton Jan. 25 in a vie for the senate seat vacated last year by Charles Steele, who left the post to take a position with the Southern Christian Leadership Coalition.

“I believe if people will get out to the polls they will vote for me,” Carter said. He said his campaign slogan is “I am the right choice for all the people,” because he will represent not only his Republican constituents, but the Democratic supporters as well.

“I’m actually calling on those Democrats out there who are tired of the same old games to team up with us,” he said. “This could be a win for the Democrats too if they elect me because I will represent both of us.

“I will do more by listening to and carrying out the wishes of those in every county and every community, every town and city,” he said.

Listening is a key component of good representation,

Carter said, and that is something he said he will do.

“I will be a listening senator. I will not go to Montgomery and pass any legislation that affects any community without having total input from that community,” he said. “I will have an open door policy, and I will always be available for those I serve.”

He said he has received a good response from voters so far, with nine out of ten people he has talked to pledging their support.

“I believe they’re honest,” he said. “Those I’ve talked to who support my opponent tell me so and I move on. I appreciate their honesty.”

Carter urged voters to look at Singleton’s track record in his current position.

“My opponent is already in the legislature, I urge voters to look at what he has accomplished there and apply that to what he would do in the senate,” he said. “With my experience and dedication, I could make a greater difference than my opponent.”

Carter said he could be reached at home at (205) 366-8538 or on his cell phone at (205) 499-1380.

And anyone who wishes to contribute to the campaign can do so by mailing contributions to the James E. Carter Campaign Fund, P.O. Box 335, Eutaw, Ala., 35462.